IMM 5686 – Request for an Opinion on Work Permit or LMIA Exemption

📌 What is IMM 5686?

IMM 5686 is the official Government of Canada form used to request an opinion from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on whether a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or a work permit exemption applies to a temporary foreign worker’s employment in Canada.

📥 Download the Form

You can download the PDF form here: IMM 5686 – PDF (English).

Use a computer for downloading and opening this form. Mobile or tablet browsers may not open it properly. Adobe Acrobat Reader version 10 or higher is required.

🧠 Why Use This Form?

Employers or authorized representatives submit IMM 5686 to the International Mobility Workers Unit (IMWU) to clarify whether an LMIA or work permit exemption applies. The IMWU provides a written opinion, but the final decision is made by an immigration officer.

👤 Who Can Request an Opinion?

• The worker must be outside Canada
• The worker must be from a visa-exempt country
• Only one exemption is reviewed per request

📄 What to Include in Your Request

• Completed IMM 5686 form
• Passport biographical page of the worker
• Letter explaining the company and staffing needs
• Job offer or employment contract
• CV / Resume
• Educational credentials (if applicable)
• Relevant LMIA exemption or work permit exemption code

Documents are typically scanned and emailed to the IRCC IMWU address. Total email size should not exceed 4 MB.

📅 When to Submit

Submit your request at least 45 days before the worker’s planned entry into Canada.

📌 Important Notes

• A positive IMWU opinion does not guarantee approval of a work permit or LMIA exemption; the final decision is made by a border services officer or visa officer.
• Only one opinion is assessed per submission.

🆘 Helpful Contact

Email for IMWU requests: IRCC.IMWU-UMIT.IRCC@cic.gc.ca